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Company Law Reform Bill [HL]

My Lords, I thank the Minister for that comprehensive reply which, of course, we will have to study in detail. I also thank him on behalf of the noble Baroness, Lady Goudie, for the offer of reconsidering the aspect that she raised in her amendment, which is important, before Third Reading. I must tell the Minister that we remain unconvinced that letting the Bill proceed with the offence as drafted is the proper way forward. I still think that the Government have not produced any evidence that the offence is necessary. It seems to be made up on the basis of hypothetical situations that officials sitting in Victoria Street dream up about what auditors say to finance directors when they are having a drink. Frankly, it is ludicrous. We will consider the matter very carefully between now and Third Reading. We will obviously want to discuss the contents of the Minister’s speech with those outside who have a particular concern. I am sure that we shall return to it again on Third Reading. I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. [Amendments Nos. 330 to 335 not moved.]